Celebrating midwives: Unmasking the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we live and how we view our place in a global society. We have had to rethink our values and goals and even who we look to for leadership and guidance. Some positives emerged from this, with many people developing a greater appreciation of the vital role of healthcare workers, including midwives, and finding renewed respect for those who ensure our loved ones are cared for when they need it. Midwives continued to be recognised for the valuable service they offer, caring and supporting women throughout their pregnancy, birth, and postnatal journey. However, during the pandemic midwives often found themselves at the centre of much debate and media attention when hospital systems closed and restricted visitors in maternity services. The face mask has become social iconography of the COVID-19 pandemic, being the visible and physical reminder of what the world has faced since January 2020. It is the sign of protection, safety, and most importantly, solidarity: “masking up” to protect not only ourselves but each other. This is the canvas for this art piece. On ‘International Day of the Midwife’, we provided masks, writing implements and drawing supplies to members of the community, and asked them to record messages to midwives. These decorated masks were then woven together into a wall hanging to demonstrate to all midwives that their work throughout the pandemic is visible and appreciated by the communities they serve.